Exercises
State one prudential reason and one moral reason for power sharing with an example from the Indian context.
The chapter gives two sets of reasons why power sharing is desirable, calling the first set prudential and the second moral.
Prudential reason: Power sharing is good because it helps to reduce the possibility of conflict between social groups. Since social conflict often leads to violence and political instability, power sharing ensures the stability of the political order; imposing the will of the majority over others may look attractive in the short run but in the long run undermines the unity of the nation. Indian example: sharing power between the Central Government and the State Governments (federal division) reduces conflict and holds a diverse country together.
Moral reason: Power sharing is the very spirit of democracy. Democratic rule involves sharing power with those affected by its exercise, who have a right to be consulted on how they are governed; a legitimate government is one where citizens acquire a stake through participation. Indian example: reserved constituencies for weaker sections and women give diverse social groups a share and a voice in government.
Answer: Prudential: power sharing reduces conflict and ensures stability (e.g. Centre–State federal division in India). Moral: power sharing is the very spirit of democracy – those affected have a right to be consulted (e.g. reserved constituencies giving weaker sections a share).